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An alumna: Pursue an online Ph.D. in Counseling and Psychological Studies at Regent University

Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies

An Advanced Degree for Mental Health Counseling, Research, Scholarship & Psychological Science

Are you a scholar seeking to impact culture outside the formal professional arm of psychology or counseling? Or, perhaps you’re seeking a mental health Ph.D. program to help you advance in international work and don’t need North American professional accreditation. Regent’s challenging Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies degree program includes a common core in research, statistics, psychometrics, and Christian leadership. You can also choose elective courses that will prepare you for work in your specific area of interest.

Online
51
January 13, 2025

Become Highly Specialized

Choose the concentration that best fits your interests and career goals.

Advance Your Career Potential

Open new opportunities in salary and opportunity through this doctoral degree in counseling and psychological studies.

Prepare to Make a Lasting Difference

Join a respected network of Regent mental health practitioners leading in their field through the integration of science and faith.

Pursue Academic Excellence

Experience Regent, ranked among top national universities by U.S. News & World Report, 2024. Courses are taught from a Christian worldview by renowned faculty in Virginia Beach and beyond.

Please complete the Request Information form on this page to learn more about this program.

Upon completion of the Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies degree, you can:

  • Gain a solid foundation in research methods and applied field experience.
  • Learn to anchor your work in scientific, historical and theological elements of counseling and psychology.
  • Collaborate with professional peers and experienced clinical leaders through the planning and presentation of your dissertation.

Career Opportunities

  • University Faculty/Leadership
  • Researcher/Writer
  • Mental Health Services Executive
  • Guidance Director
  • Nonprofit Administrator
$88Thousand
Approximate Mean Annual Wage for Postsecondary Psychology Teachers, 2021 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Addictions Counseling can prepare you for a career in mental health counseling, research, education, and psychological science. Receive the knowledge and skills needed to break new ground in behavioral health and make an impact on this social crisis.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Biblical Counseling provides sound biblical interpretation and the application of theology to address human need. It can prepare you for a career in mental health counseling, research, education, psychological science, biblical counseling center and more.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Human Services Counseling can develop your expertise in children’s and couples’ counseling, marriage and parenting enrichment techniques, and divorce/remarriage conflict resolution. It can help to enhance your interpersonal and facilitator skills and provide an insight into biblical principles relevant to group dynamics.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Human Services for Student Affairs can expand your expertise regarding the intellectual growth, moral development, values, career choice, and psychosocial changes of students. This program can equip you to foster a positive learning environment.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Industrial-Organizational can equip you in mental health counseling, research, education, and psychological science through this scientific discipline that studies human behavior in the workplace.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Life Coaching can equip you to understand and apply both counseling and coaching to maximize client results. The program can prepare you for a career in mental health counseling, research, education and psychological science.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Marriage & Family Ministry can equip you to bring biblically based, scientifically supported reason and research to the mental health arena. Research critical areas, including forgiveness & grace, inner healing, conflict & crisis management, sexuality, eating disorders, child behavior, and more.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling & Psychological Studies – Trauma & Crisis Counseling focuses on models of inner healing, forgiveness, critical incidents, crisis management, and community trauma and disaster. It can prepare you for a career in mental health counseling, research, education and psychological science.

Featured Courses
MHPS 616Research Methods in Psychological Sciences I3
Surveys the range of research methods utilized in psychology sciences with a primary emphasis on quantitative research including both experimental and non-experimental designs. Emphasis will be on statistical concepts and reasoning.
MHPS 618Qualitative Research Methodology3
Examination of qualitative research designs such as grounded theory, ethnographic, and phenomenological methodologies and the development of advanced level qualitative research skill. Includes the development of competencies in qualitative data collection, analysis and oral and written data presentation.
MHPS 674Addictive Behaviors3
Presents the psychological and physiological aspects of addiction. Explores components of an addictive cycle, empirically supported treatment modalities, relapse prevention, and the approaches in facilitating family and community supports.
MHPS 691Global Mental Heath Care I3
Introduction to key concepts, theories and methods in indigenous psychology, including seminal research and approaches to culture, psychology and science.
MHPS 700Dissertation Seminar3
An introduction to the Doctoral Dissertation process whereby students will choose a Dissertation Committee, Topic, Methodology, and meet regularly with their Dissertation cohort to gain an understanding of the Dissertation process. Prerequisites: MHPS 616 and MHPS 618. Pass/No Pass.
MHPS 701Dissertation I3
Conduct research under the direction of a dissertation chair, analyze data, and write chapter 3 (results) of the dissertation. Students must submit three progressive submissions of their chapter 3. Final chapter must be approved to move to MHPS 702. Prerequisite: MHPS 700. Pass/No Pass.
MHPS 702Dissertation II3
Write chapter 4 (discussion of results) and develop a presentation for dissertation defense. Students must submit two progressive submissions of their chapter 4. Final dissertation document must receive approval for dissertation defense. Prerequisite: MHPS 701. Pass/No Pass.
MHPS 703Dissertation III2
Develop and conduct research under the direction of a dissertation committee. Content of the study can be an empirical study, case study or other suitable professional activity/product. Register for three consecutive terms or by petition. Pass/No Pass.
MHPS 714Statistics3
Examines the relationship between research design and statistical methods, and the principles of probability theory in multivariate analysis, including multiple regression analysis, analysis of variance, analysis of covariance and multivariate analysis of variance. Emphasizes skill in the application of advanced statistical techniques to social science research, interpreting results of statistical analyses and data analyses and presentations.
MHPS 724Appraisal & Psychometrics3
Introduces psychometric testing, with particular emphasis on multicultural dimensions of the topic. Administer, score and evaluate the findings of tests. Primary emphasis on current versions commonly used assessments and applications across contexts.
MHPS 740Introduction & Leadership3
Overview of the history and development of mental health professionals with an examination of the theoretical orientation and practical skills necessary to function effectively as a leader. Examine current topics pertinent to leadership within the field and biblically based leadership skills.
MHPS 758Disaster Trauma & Psychological First Aid3
Covers emergency management and key concepts of disaster mental health. In depth understanding of cultural issues related to disaster and the application of Psychological First Aid.
MHPS 763Supervision3
Critique of the literature in mental health supervision with discussion and didactic emphasis on the role of the clinical supervisor in the dynamics of supervisory relationships. Examines current theories, research and topics related to supervisory leadership and cross-cultural applications.
MHPS 796Capstone: Psychological Sciences & Christian Thought3
The interface between Christian theology and psychology; the examination of historical and current issues affecting faith and profession, applications of spirituality within the discipline and reflection on professional identity formation and application as a culmination of the doctoral experience.

2024-25 Semester Check-In Deadlines

All students are expected to check-in for the semester two weeks before the session start date. Students should apply, be accepted, enroll in their first courses, and confirm a plan to pay for their courses prior to this date.

SessionSemester Check-InSession Start Date
Session AFriday, August 9Monday, August 19
Session BFriday, October 11Monday, October 21
Session CWednesday, January 8Monday, January 13
Session DFriday, March 7Monday, March 17
Session EFriday, May 2Monday, May 12
Session FFriday, June 13Monday, June 23

Prerequisites

Ph.D. applicants must:

  • Hold a regionally accredited 30 hour master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
  • Have at least one year of experience in a mental health field (highly desirable).

Admissions Requirements

Step 1: Apply to Regent University

Submit your application using the Regent University Online Application.

Note: If you are unable to complete our application due to a disability, please contact our Admissions Office at 757.352.4990 or admissions@regent.edu and an admissions representative will provide reasonable accommodations to assist you in completing the application.

Step 2: Submit Your Unofficial Transcripts

Submit your unofficial transcripts to regent.edu/items.

Upon submitting your application, you will receive an email requesting authorization for Regent University to obtain your official transcripts from your U.S. degree-granting institution. International transcripts must be evaluated by a NACES, AACRAO or NAFSA approved agency.

International Applicants: Please visit the International Students Admissions page for a more detailed explanation of the Regent University application information and to determine whether or not you qualify as an international student.

Step 3: Complete an Admissions Questionnaire

Please complete a brief admissions questionnaire based on your professional goals and interests. This should only take a few minutes to complete but please answer the questions completely and thoughtfully. This gives us a better opportunity to get to know you and align your objectives with our programs. Once completed, it will be sent directly to an admissions counselor who will be in touch with you right away to help complete the rest of your application.

Step 4: Submit Your Resume

The Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies degree requires a professional resume or curriculum vitae to include three references with contact information. References should be able to address questions related to character, as well as your interpersonal and relational skills. The resume should also include thorough job descriptions of each position held. This can be submitted to regent.edu/items.

Step 5: Graduate Academic Paper

Please submit an APA formatted academic writing sample that is relevant to the field of Mental Health. Your submission needs to be at least five pages in length (preferably research based) and with at least five scholarly references. We do not accept case studies, literature reviews, or papers where you are not the sole author. Please submit to regent.edu/items.

Step 6: Submit Your Government-Issued ID

To ensure academic integrity, Regent University requires a copy of a government-issued ID. Please submit a scanned copy or photograph of it to regent.edu/items.


Please feel free to contact the Office of Admissions at 757.352.4990 or admissions@regent.edu should you have any further questions about the application process.

Note: All items submitted as part of the application process become the property of Regent University and cannot be returned.

PART-TIME STUDENTS

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Arts in Human Services (MA)$6156$3,690
Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (MA)$6156$3,690
Master of Science in Psychology (MS)$6956$4,170
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA)$7306$4,380
Master of Arts in School Counseling (MA)$7306$4,380
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling (MA)$7306$4,380
Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling & Psychological Studies (PhD)$6953$2,085
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision (PhD)Full time enrollment is required.
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)Full time enrollment is required.

Full-Time Students

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Arts in Human Services (MA)$6159$5,535
Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (MA)$6159$5,535
Master of Science in Psychology (MS)$6959$6,255
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA)$7309$6,570
Master of Arts in School Counseling (MA)$7309$6,570
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling (MA)$7309$6,570
Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling & Psychological Studies (PhD)$6956$4,170
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision (PhD)$9456$5,670
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)$94512$11,340

Student Fees Per Semester

University Services Fee (On-Campus Students)$850 (Fall & Spring)
$700 (Summer)
University Services Fee (Online Students)$700

Military Admissions & Aid » | Cost of Attendance »

Part-Time Students

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Arts in Human Services (MA)$6156$3,690
Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (MA)$6156$3,690
Master of Science in Psychology (MS)$6956$4,170
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA)$7306$4,380
Master of Arts in School Counseling (MA)$7306$4,380
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling (MA)$7306$4,380
Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling & Psychological Studies (PhD)$6953$2,085
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision (PhD)Full time enrollment is required.
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)Full time enrollment is required.

Full-Time Students

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Arts in Human Services (MA)$6159$5,535
Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (MA)$6159$5,535
Master of Science in Psychology (MS)$6959$6,255
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA)$7309$6,570
Master of Arts in School Counseling (MA)$7309$6,570
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling (MA)$7309$6,570
Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling & Psychological Studies (PhD)$6956$4,170
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision (PhD)$9006$5,400
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)$90012$10,800

Student Fees Per Semester

University Services Fee (On-Campus Students)$850 (Fall & Spring)
$700 (Summer)
University Services Fee (Online Students)$700

Military Admissions & Aid » | Cost of Attendance »

*Rates are subject to change at any time.

“Regent was a pivotal point in my professional career. I have been forever changed by my experience!”
Richard Mason, Ph.D. , 2007 Counselor Education & Supervision
“If you are focused, determined, willing to put in the work and make sacrifices, anyone can do this. I give all praise to God. Keep going no matter what.”
Antonio Tuck, M.A. in Counseling, 2020 Human Services Professional
“I wanted a rigorous doctoral program that could travel with me wherever I was in the country. I found this and more at Regent.”
Heather Paessler-Chesterton, Ph.D., 2009 Counselor Education and Supervision
“Two degrees down, one to go! So happy to have completed my master’s in psychology!”
Ally Duggins, M.S. in Psychology, 2020 Co-Founder, Willow House Media
“People, especially kids, need more than clichés. My training at Regent gave me a meaningful way to express my empathy - which is passion and compassion combined - and they could feel the authenticity of it.”
Cedric Rucker, M.A. in Counseling, 2008 Community Counseling